Scar Perception and Outcomes After Transaxillary Breast Augmentation: A Prospective Analysis of Patient- and...

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Aesthetic Surgery
• Surgical Outcomes Research

Background:

• The transaxillary (TAA) approach for breast augmentation (BA) is known for inconspicuous scarring.
• Previous scar outcome studies have had limited follow-up and sample sizes.
• No prior clinical studies have utilized scar-specific instruments for TAA BA scar evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate axillary incision outcomes following transaxillary breast augmentation.
• To assess complication rates associated with the TAA approach.
• To analyze long-term scar quality using validated scar assessment tools.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 71 patients undergoing TAA BA was identified.
• Axillary incision scars were evaluated using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) v2.0 at 1, 6, and 12 months.
• Long-term follow-up averaged 58.3 months, with analysis of incision length and associated factors.

Main Results:

• Eleven patients (15.4%) experienced complications, primarily axillary banding (4.2%).
• Factors like non-use of implant sleeves, textured implants, and larger implant volumes (>350 cc) correlated with larger incisions and poorer POSAS scores at 12 months.
• At 12 months, 81% of patient and 78.2% of observer scores indicated low/intermediate scar grades.

Conclusions:

• The transaxillary approach for breast augmentation is a reliable technique with satisfactory long-term incision outcomes.
• POSAS evaluations indicate most patients achieve good scar results and high satisfaction at one year.
• Careful preoperative planning and incision placement are crucial for safe TAA BA and minimizing poor scar outcomes.